Mufti Derian from Mecca: 'The Israeli aggression is no longer tolerable, at any cost'

Mufti Abdellatif Derian sent a message on Wednesday from Mecca to the Lebanese people on the occasion of Eid al-Adha, celebrated this year from the evening of Thursday, June 5 to Monday, June 9, blending spirituality with political concerns and notably denouncing the Israeli attacks on Lebanon and Gaza.

"Just as the Palestinians want to free themselves from occupation, Lebanon, particularly its south, desires this as well. Israeli aggressions are no longer tolerable, in any form or at any price," the mufti stated. "It is therefore up to the international community to immediately condemn this war of aggression and work for a cease-fire."

In his message, the mufti spoke about the situation in Gaza, denouncing the lack of international sanctions and calling for respect for human rights under the United Nations Charter: "For over a hundred years, the Palestinians have been fighting for their freedom and the creation of their state, suffering unprecedented massacres and genocide, except during major wars. Why does this continue? Because there is no accountability, no sanctions, no condemnations by the international community and the dominant powers."

The religious leader finished by expressing his confidence in the new Lebanese government and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam.

"We hope they will be able to resolve the financial, economic, social crises, and those affecting daily life," he said. "We call for fair and honest policies. Reform is a will, a courageous and wise decision. Lebanon needs a thorough reform of its political, national, and institutional life."